Prickly Pear Mule Recipe

1. Build the mule

Fill a mule mug or highball glass about three-quarters full with cubed ice (approx. 1 cup).

2. Pour 2 oz Western Son prickly pear vodka over the ice.

3. Add 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice and 0.25 oz simple syrup to the glass. The lemon brightens the prickly pear and the small amount of syrup balances tartness.

4. Top with 4 oz ginger beer. Gently stir once or twice with a bar spoon to combine the layers without flattening the ginger beer's carbonation.

5. Float a lemon wheel on the top of the drink and tuck a mint sprig into the ice at the rim for aroma.

6. If available, add a thin slice or small wedge of prickly pear on the rim or skewered on a pick for visual appeal and an extra hint of flavor.

7. Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy. Adjust sweetness to taste by increasing or decreasing the simple syrup.